Scotland’s Compulsory Purchase Reform Consultation Now Open

The Scottish Government has opened a public consultation on proposals to reform the country’s compulsory purchase system — a legal mechanism that enables public authorities to acquire land or property without the owner’s consent for projects that serve the public interest.

This consultation represents a significant opportunity to modernise a system that underpins vital infrastructure, regeneration, and community development across Scotland.

Scotland’s current compulsory purchase framework is rooted in legislation dating back to the 19th century. Over time, it has become increasingly complex, outdated, and difficult to navigate. The Scottish Law Commission’s 2016 report highlighted the need for a comprehensive overhaul, describing the existing system as “archaic” and “not fit for purpose in a modern context”.

The Scottish Government believes that a more accessible, transparent, and equitable system would empower local authorities and public bodies to use compulsory purchase more effectively — for example, to bring vacant and derelict land back into productive use, support housing delivery, and enable town centre revitalisation.

The consultation outlines a range of proposed reforms, including:

• Simplifying and streamlining the legal and procedural framework
• Enhancing transparency and public engagement throughout the process
• Ensuring fair, timely, and consistent compensation for affected parties
• Introducing new tools such as compulsory sale orders and compulsory lease orders

These changes aim to strike a balance between the public interest and the rights of property owners, while enabling more proactive use of land to support Scotland’s economic, environmental, and social objectives.

The consultation is open to all — including homeowners, tenants, landowners, developers, legal professionals, planners, and community organisations. Whether you have direct experience with compulsory purchase or simply wish to contribute to shaping a fairer and more effective system, your views are welcome.

To review the proposals and submit your response, please visit the official consultation page: Compulsory Purchase Reform Consultation. The consultation will remain open until 20 December 2025.

This is a rare and important opportunity to influence the future of land reform in Scotland. By participating in the consultation, you can help ensure that the reformed system reflects the needs and values of communities, professionals, and individuals across the country.

Have your say — respond to the consultation today and help shape a more modern, fair, and effective compulsory purchase system for Scotland.